Updated 14.25
FORMER MANCHESTER UNITED and Leeds star Alan Smith has taken over as caretaker manager of Notts County following John Sheridan’s dismissal.
Smith has been a player-coach at Meadow Lane since joining the club in 2014, and will occupy the role temporarily until a permanent manager has been appointed.
The club confirmed the news on their official website.
“The most important thing right now is for everyone – players, staff and fans – to stick together,” Smith said after his appointment.
“There’s no getting away from it, it’s been a very, very disappointing season so far. But there are lots of points still to play for and we are determined and confident of putting things right.
“The fans are doing their bit. Our following at Cambridge, given our recent form, was phenomenal. As players and staff we have to repay that loyalty.
“We have some huge games coming up, starting at Morecambe on Saturday and, until a new manager arrives, I will be working closely with Mark and the rest of the staff to hopefully lead an upturn in our fortunes.”
Former Republic of Ireland international John Sheridan was sacked by the League Two club after a run of nine consecutive defeats, leaving them one point above the relegation zone.
The 52-year-old was appointed manager during the summer but the Magpies have won just six of his 24 league games in charge.
He departs with immediate effect following the side’s 4-0 defeat at Cambridge on Monday.
The club released a statement on their official website following the news.
Notts County FC can confirm that John Sheridan is to leave his position as manager with immediate effect. The club will be making no further statement at this time.
Notts County, who are in danger of dropping to non-league football for the first time in the club’s history, are now seeking their 11th full-time manager since Steve Cotterill left after leading them them to the League Two honours in May 2010.
The Magpies are now set to be taken over by local businessman Alan Hardy after current owner Ray Trew agreed to sell the club in December.
During his playing days, Stretford-born Sheridan won 34 caps for Ireland, including appearances at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups. He has also managed Chesterfield and Oldham Athletic since hanging up his playing boots.
Note: The original article was updated to include the news on Alan Smith, and then again when it was confirmed.
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